Colt 1st Gen. Single Action Army 5 1/2” .45 Colt SAA Revolver MFD 1921 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,775.00
LSB#: LSB250927RD040
Make: Colt
Model: Single Action Army
Serial Number: 342346
Year of Manufacture: 1921 / C&R
Caliber: .45 Colt
Action Type: 6-Shot Single Action Revolver
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”, the left is marked “COLT SINGLE ACTION ARMY .45”. The left of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19, 1871 / JULY 2, 72 JAN. 19, 75” and with a rampant colt logo. The left of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle at the front. The bottom of the frame in front of the trigger guard is marked with the serial number “342346”.
Barrel Length: 5 1/2”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade soldered to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V”-notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are replacement Stag/Antler grips. There are no chips or cracks. There’s age wear and discoloration of the antler material. The left grip overlaps the backstrap slightly. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue barrel & trigger guard, Case Hardened frame & hammer
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dark and there is significant oxidation and erosion present. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 4/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about none of its metal finish. There is significant oxidation present on the backstrap and trigger guard with other more minor spots of oxidation throughout. Most of the areas worn to the white are a gray patina. The screw heads are sharp with serviceable slots. The action shows operational wear. Overall, this revolver is in about Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is crisp. The cylinder locks with light play on each chamber. We have not fired this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment:The Colt Single Action Army stands as one of the most iconic firearms produced in the United States—introduced in 1873, carried across the frontier, and preserved today as a symbol of both craftsmanship and American history. By 1921, when this 1st Generation example was manufactured, Colt was nearing the end of its original production era, and revolvers from this period display the classic case-hardened frames, deep blue components, and hand-fitted workmanship that defined early SAA construction. The 5.5″ barrel length offered the ideal balance for holster carry and pointability, making it one of the most popular configurations throughout the Peacemaker’s working life.
Chambered in .45 Colt, the cartridge developed alongside the SAA in 1873, this revolver reflects the combination that armed U.S. cavalry units, frontier lawmen, and ranch hands for decades. Time and honest use have left visible marks of age, including heavy oxidation and erosion within the bore, as well as notable oxidation on the backstrap and trigger guard, which have worn to a mottled gray patina. Despite its weathered exterior, the revolver maintains correct mechanical function with a crisp trigger and reliable lockup, underscoring the durability of Colt’s original design. The replacement stag grips, though slightly oversized at the backstrap, contribute a classic frontier aesthetic that complements the revolver’s century-old character.
Late 1st Generation SAAs continue to hold strong collector interest, valued for their authentic presence and direct connection to the era that defined the model’s reputation. With original finish worn away to a working patina and all major markings still legible, this 1921 revolver presents as a genuine, well-aged example of the Peacemaker’s historic lineage. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid!
BF/MA
